Get to know our new Senior Analyst: Sustainable Agriculture, Sixolise Mcinga
What is your background expertise and how does it relate to your role here at GreenCape?
My background is in soil science; I completed my undergraduate BSC degree and MSC at the University of Fort Hare. My MSC dissertation title is Assessment of earthworm diversity and density as affected by climate, soil properties and agronomic management in the Raymond Mhlaba municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
I worked as an intern at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) – Institute for soil, climate and water in the soil and water science division. I have experience in sustainable agriculture practices which include Conservation Agriculture and Agrimat as sustainable mulching materials in climate-smart agriculture. I am currently a PhD candidate at Nelson Mandela University.
What has been your favourite thing about GreenCape so far?
What I like the most about GreenCape so far is the organisation’s diversity. The working environment is truly refreshing. I enjoy the organisation’s culture. Everyone at GreenCape is always eager to help and I am always inspired to learn from all the different sector desks.
What project have you been working on as you start your role here at GreenCape?
So far, I have been working on familiarising myself with the Mpumalanga Green Economy Cluster Agency which is my main focus. I have also been working on some of the stuff related to SmartAgri.
Why do you do what you do?
I am very passionate about sustainable agriculture and the green economy in general. I consider myself as an agricultural production activist.
What impact do you hope to achieve?
I have set out my goals in the short, medium and long term. The short term goal is to complete my PhD studies. The medium term goal is to fulfill the mandate of bridging research work and make it implementable in the sector. I also want to ensure that there is fruitful direct engagement between farmers and investors.
What do you get up to in your spare time?
I like reading, cooking and going out for a run to rejuvenate my mind, body and soul.
